Woking Football Club Limited is a private company limited by shares registered in England, company number 03329172. Material shareholders holding in excess of 10% of the Ordinary shares of Woking Football Club Limited are currently Mr. Peter Jordan, who controls 46%, The Cardinals Supporters’ Society (Chairman Mr. Rupert Phillips) which controls 23% and Final Third Sport UK (Shareholding Directors Mr. Dwight Volpe and Mr John Katz) and which controls 14% of the voting rights in the Company.
Board of Directors: Drew Volpe, John Katz, Dave Curtis, Gareth Farrell, George Burnett
Chief Operating Officer: Dave Curtis
Company Secretary: George Burnett
Honorary Vice President: Peter Jordan
Club Ambassador: Geoff Chapple
Business Development Director: Simon Jones
Accounts & Finance Manager: Pam Stevenson
Food & Beverage Manager: Evie Carey
Sales Administrator: Issac Allen-Harris
Media Lead: Jonnie Green
Safety Officer: Amelia Tyson
Shop Manager: Ben Cavey
Club Chaplain: Ian Nicholson
MANAGER
MICHAEL dOYLE
2024/25
SE ASON TiCKETS
IN SAFE HANdS
As a reminder, it is our goal to ensure that all supporters feel safe and welcome at the Laithwaite Community Stadium. To that end, on 11 December 2021, the Club launched the “In Safe Hands” programme to help our fans report racist, sexist, homophobic, or other abusive language simply and anonymously.
If you hear any abusive language, experience it yourself or if you or someone you see feels / looks threatened, you can text the Club anonymously and the message will be monitored by our Safety Officer during the match. Simply text WFC (followed by the nature of your concern and location) to 66777 and we will address your concerns. Example: If you hear racial abuse whilst sitting in the KRE, please send the following text to 66777: “WFC racial abuse centre section of KRE.”
The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and the Government’s charity.
We award grants and work with partners to deliver outstanding grassroots football facilities across England.
Search Football Foundation to find out more.
AHEAd OF THE GAME
Woking finish October with a difficult task against table toppers Forest Green Rovers. After back-to-back away defeats in the West Midlands, Michael Doyle will hope to find solace back at the Laithwaite, although he’ll have to do without Charley Kendall following his red card on Wednesday.
Timi Odusina returned to the matchday squad for the Solihull game, meaning he could be in line to start against FGR as Woking look to find some stability at the back, seeing as it’s now seven league games without a win or clean sheet.
OPPOSITION WATCH
It was just two seasons ago that Forest Green Rovers were at the peak of their existence, reaching League One for the first time ever as League Two champions. A spectacular downfall has seen them finish rock bottom in the last two seasons, but there was no chance of that happening again this year.
Appointed as manager back in January, Steve Cotterill was unable to perform the greatest of escapes, but planning for their National League campaign had already begun. The likes of Tom Knowles, Ben Tozer and Joe Quigley joined from EFL clubs having been successful in this division
Woking vs Forest Green Rovers
Vanarama National League
Saturday 26th October 2024
15:00 Kick-Off
previously, whilst Rovers broke the bank to get Harry Cardwell to depart Southend United, a signing that really announced their arrival back to this level of football when the 27-year-old joined in late August.
The result of pairing these names with the likes of former Rangers starlet Charlie McCann and serial goalscorer Christian Doidge has resulted in a squad which many in the division envy, Rovers sitting at the summit of the table having won nine of their last twelve games, including four on the bounce.
Doidge and McCann lead the way with seven and five goals scored respectively, and FGR haven’t conceded more than once away from home since a 3-3 draw at Aldershot on opening day.
AROUND THE GROUND
Tickets are available to purchase online here.
LAST TIME OUT
EFL bound FGR were 4-3 victors at the New Lawn back in February 2017, despite a memorable goal from Joey Jones from just inside the hosts’ half. They also claimed three points at the Laithwaite in August 2017 with a solitary Keanu Marsh-Brown goal.
TICKET INFORMATION
ONLINE & ADVANCE SALES VS. [MATCHDAY SALES]
Adults – £21 [£24]
Concessions – £16 [£19]
Next-Gen (17-22) – £13 [£16]
Under 17 (14-16) – £9 [£12]
Under 14 (13 & under) – £5
Family ticket* - £47.50 [online exclusively]
*Family ticket discount will be applied when two (2) adult tickets & two (2) under 14 tickets are selected and added to the basket for any home league match.
PURCHASE TICKETS
ARRIVING AT THE STADIUM
Kingfield Road turnstiles – blue and yellow entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.
Westfield Avenue turnstiles - red and orange entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.
Away supporter turnstiles - white entry opens two hours before kick-off, unless stated otherwise.
Supporters who have purchased a hospitality package will have green entry and should enter through the Guest Entrance, Kingfield Road.
Supporters are reminded to arrive at the Laithwaite Community Stadium in good time, and are not guaranteed to gain entry in time for kick-off when arriving less than 30 minutes before kick-off.
FOOD & DRINK
The Cardinals Bar is located at the front of the stadium.
The bar has full draught and bottle beer options. The Fan Zone is the newest addition for supporters and is located opposite the Cardinals Bar.
Moaners Corner Café is located next Moaners Corners Stand, with hot and cold drinks, plus snacks available.
The Seymours Community Stand has hot food options and a last lane for beverages.
CLUB SHOP
The Club Shop is open two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, located by the Fan Zone.
The shop is also open Mon - Fri, 10:00 - 16:00, upon check-in at reception.
TICKETING INFORMATION
All Woking FC Season Ticket holders can use their Season Ticket card to enter Laithwaite Community Stadium for all Vanarama National League matches.
Supporters with individual match tickets can use the e-ticket they purchased which was emailed from noreply@ktckts.com. Such tickets can be scanned on a smartphone or when printed.
Any assistance needed for matchday please contact tickets@wokingfc.co.uk, call 01483 772470, or come to reception Mon - Fri, 09:0017:00, or matchdays, 09:00 - half-time.
OTHER INFORMATION
Away supporter information can be found here. Directions to the ground are available here. Disabled access information is available here
S OC IAL
J. Stevens, 42'(P), 83' H. Beautyman, 8'
A team you can count on
Our team of experts work every day to make the UK healthier, happier, fitter and stronger. At Nuffield Health Woking hospital, we take a personalised approach to help you see a consultant in as little as 24 hours.
Nuffield Health Woking Hospital are introducing robotic arm-assisted precision surgery for orthopaedic surgery.
Greater surgical precision, better outcomes and less time spent in hospital.
With our highly experienced surgeons working in harmony with state-of-the-art equipment, the hip and knee replacement surgery we offer has evolved – bringing patients a range of enhanced benefits. The result: even greater surgical precision, leading to improved outcomes, decreased pain and faster patient recovery.
For further information visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/woking or call 01483 227 800.
MATCHdAY & BALL SPONSORSHIP
Booking as part of a business, or simply looking to celebrate in added style? Why not take out a match or ball sponsorship?
You’ll receive all the incredible VIP Hospitality benefits, plus: Match Sponsorship - £1,150.00 + VAT
• Signed home shirt
• Half-page programme promotion
• PA promotion
• Social media and website promotion
• Access to our “Partner Perks” for the 24/25 season
• Full matchday hospitality for a table of ten (add additional guests for only £50 per person)
• Choose player of the match – read out on PA
• Executive VIP parking
Match Ball Sponsorship - £650.00 + VAT
• Signed match ball
• Half-page programme promotion
• PA promotion
• Social media and website promotion
• Access to our “Partner Perks” for the 24/25 season
• Full matchday hospitality experience for a table of six (add additional guests for only £50 per person)
PLAYER SPONSORSHIP
The club are delighted to announce the Player Sponsorship package for the 24/25 season.
The club have reviewed the price and enhanced the offer to make supporting your favourite 1st team management or player more accessible and rewarding.
From the 24/25 season, player and management sponsors will receive:
• Signed match worn home and away jerseys near the start of the season presented at our Player & Management Sponsors dinner.
• Dedicated video shout-out from the player on signing and/ or on your birthday/special event (or a significant others).
• 2 x hospitality tickets during the season and the opportunity to meet your sponsored player after/before the game.
• Option to attend manager/player meet and greet throughout the season.
• Pre-game scoreboard reel with players and your name/ logo next to them.
Price for 24/25 player sponsorship is £900 + VAT. To sponsor a player, please email Simon, the club's Business Development Director, on simon.jones@wokingfc.co.uk.
SPONSOR
enquiries
4 Cian Harries
28. Ollie Webber
22. Will Jääskeläinen
3. Jacob Jones
2. Dan Moss
7. Harry Beautyman
8. Dale Gorman
5. Timi Odusina
6. Jamie Andrews
21. Ben Wynter
35. Max Dyche
27. Dion Kelly-Evans
11. Dennon Lewis
9. Charley Kendall
26. Tom Dryer
29. Tom Leahy 18. Raheem Conte
Rohan Ince
17. Matt Ward
16. Tunji Akinola
10. Lewis Walker 14. Deon Moore
15. Adam Chicksen 23. Jermaine Anderson
John Keeley
Dan Rowe
Thinesh
Bringing Your Opto-Mechanical Ideas To Life.
Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Services in the heart of Woking since 1958.
Design • Metal Machining • Anodising • Assembly
To find out more, scan our QR code
Over 90%* of UCFB graduates find fulltime employment within 6 months of graduating with two thirds of those working in football and sport * UCFB internal
Turn your passion for football into a career with the University Campus of Football Business where you can study a wide range of courses with access to iconic stadiums and global summits . Scan here for more information and how to apply or visit UCFB.ac.uk
UCFB alumni have worked in each of the 20 Premier League clubs and over 50 of the 72 EFL clubs
The course has been exceptional for learning so many skills within the industry. The lecturers and module leaders have all really guided me on my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am now without the help that UCFB has given me.
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BA (Hons) Football Business and Media student and Women’s Content Creator at Chelsea FC
HOSPiTALiTY PACKAGES 24/25
Woking Football Club is pleased to confirm its matchday hospitality prices for 2024/25.
Enjoy VIP matchday hospitality for only £65 per person at the Laithwaite Community Stadium.
You will be able to book in advance for all 24/25 fixtures online once the list has been released.
What’s included?
• Three-course meal* prepared by our in-house chef team using locally sourced ingredients supplied by Simmons Family Butchers and Boz’s Fruit & Veg.
• Executive leather padded seats in the Seymours Community Stand.
• Dedicated lounge emcee.
• Exclusive bar and drinks options.
• Pre-match first-team management or player visit.
• Hear from the match sponsors’ player of the match after the game.
Existing 2024/25 season ticket holders can enjoy a discount of £15pp for single-match hospitality. All payments for VIP matchday hospitality tickets shall be payable upon booking. Please note – cash is not accepted in the Geoff Chapple Lounge, and we will not accept cash payments on the day. Bookings are
only provisional until payment is made. All payments for hospitality season tickets shall be payable upon booking. If you have already purchased a 2024/25 season ticket**** and wish to upgrade to hospitality or platinum for the season, do so by calling the Club on 01483 772 470. Hospitality will be bookable online via the online ticketing platform or through the Club phone lines.
Other information
* Consisting of a main meal 1 hour before kick-off, a cold pudding at half-time and a cheeseboard for the table to share post-game. The main meal will either be a meat or vegetarian option (1 option of each) and will be sent out via email one week before the match. If you’d like to request an advance menu, please email tickets@wokingfc. co.uk. Please do not email menu choices in advance, as you will choose on the day. Please only email evie.carey@wokingfc.co.uk with allergen or dietary requirements.
** Under 14’s hospitality will enjoy all the benefits of
a VIP Hospitality ticket; however, their main meal options are: Cheeseburger & Chips, Hotdog & Chips, Vegan Hotdog & Chips
*** The platinum package includes all the VIP perks, plus five drink vouchers to use per matchday at the Geoff Chapple Lounge bar, which may be redeemed for draught beer pints, 187ml wine by the glass, single spirits with mixers or soft drinks. Please note that platinum packages are only available for hospitality season ticket holders.
AUGUST
Sat Aug 10 Altrincham
Sat Aug 17 Gateshead
Tue Aug 20 Dagenham & Redbridge
Sat Aug 24 Ebbsfleet United
Mon Aug 26 Hartlepool United
Sat Aug 31 Rochdale
SEPTEMBER
Sat Sep 7 Braintree Town
Tue Sep 10 Wealdstone
Sat Sep 14 Oldham Athletic
Sat Sep 21 AFC Fylde
Tue Sep 24 Eastleigh
Sat Sep 28 Sutton United
OCTOBER
Sat Oct 5 York City
Sat Oct 12 Slough Town (FA Cup)
Sat Oct 19 Tamworth
Tue Oct 22 Solihull Moors
Sat Oct 26 Forest Green Rovers
NOVEMBER
Sat Nov 2 Cambridge United (FA Cup)
Sat Nov 9 FC Halifax Town
Sat Nov 16 Boston United
Sat Nov 23 Barnet
Tue Nov 26 Southend United
Sat Nov 30 Yeovil Town
DECEMBER
Sat Dec 7 Isuzu FA Trophy 3
Sat Dec 14 Gateshead
Sat Dec 21 Altrincham
Thu Dec 26 Aldershot Town
JANUARY
Wed Jan 1 Maidenhead United
Sat Jan 11 Yeovil Town
Tue Jan 14 Dagenham & Redbridge
Sat Jan 18 Ebbsfleet United
Sat Jan 25 Hartlepool United
FEBRUARY
Sat Feb 1 Rochdale
Sat Feb 8 York City
Sat Feb 15 Tamworth
Tue Feb 18 Solihull Moors
Sat Feb 22 Forest Green Rovers
MARCH
Sat Mar 1 FC Halifax Town
Tue Mar 4 Southend United
Sat Mar 8 Boston United
Sat Mar 15 Barnet
Sat Mar 22 Wealdstone
Sat Mar 29 Braintree Town
APRIL
Sat Apr 5 Oldham Athletic
Sat Apr 12 AFC Fylde
Fri Apr 18 Maidenhead United
Mon Apr 21 Aldershot Town
Sat Apr 26 Eastleigh
MAY
Mon May 5 Sutton United
ABOUT
The Cards Trust (Cardinals Supporters Society) has worked with the Club to represent fans for more than a decade. The Trust is a shareholder of the Club (and owns around a quarter of it) and has a representative on the Board to put forward the fans’ views.
MEMBERSHIP
Supporters can join The Cards Trust for just £10 per year. Information about joining is on the Trust website.
BOOST THE BUDGET
An initiative to help the Club’s playing budget with regular contributions. More than £200,000 has gone to the Club throughout the scheme.
THE 400 CLUB
A prize draw with twelve draws per year. Around £20,000 has been given to support the Club and more than £12,000 in prizes.
GOLDRUSH
The prize draw that gives back 50% to the lucky winner with a draw at half-time on matchday, with a minimum stake of just £1. The prizes have recently been around £400 and the winning number is announced and displayed on the digital screen at half-time.
SOCIAL EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERING
The Trust also organises social events and co-
ordinates the activities of volunteers. Please get in touch if you would like to help on match days.
JUNIOR CARDS
A scheme with a range of activities for under 16s including stadium tours and competitions.
PLAYER AWARD VOTES
The Fans’ Player of the Month and Player of the Season polls are conducted by the Trust.
AWAY MATCH TRAVEL
The Cards Trust arranges coach travel to away matches for supporters at the lowest cost possible. If you are an advertiser that would like to sponsor the travel, please get in touch.
Details of all coaches are available on the Trust website, where tickets can be booked online, usually up to 23:00 on the day before the match. Members and Junior Cards get discounted away match travel.
SUPPORTERS’ LIAISON GROUP
The SLG consults with fans (both Trust members and non-members) and the Club to improve the fan experience. Real change has been made based on ideas from the group including the successful Turner's Tannoy appeal which has financed the recent upgrade in the PA at the stadium.
THE CARDS TRUST THIS WEEK'S UPdATES
UPCOMING AWAY COACH TRAVEL
Supporters Coaches
Please note that this season we have changed U16 prices to U18 prices.
AWAY TRAVEL
HALIFAX No supporters coaches
BARNET CLICK HERE
All coaches are subject to having enough bookings to run. Please book in advance!
Please contact adam.bowyer@cardstrust.co.uk for queries
JUNIOR CARDS
Membership is open for season 2024/25 and still only £10! Please join up or renew here: CLICK HERE
BIRTHDAYS
Jimmy Leonard - 31st October - 10 years old
400 CLUB September Draw
£100 Number 04 J M Horstead
(Very kindly donated to the Christmas hospital visits)
£75 Number 178 Mike Ramsbottom
£50 Number 177 David Holmes
Congratulations to the winners. Units are just £12 each. To learn more and take part please contact john.hooker@cardstrust.co.uk
BOOK HERE
CARDS TRUST QUIZ NIGHT
The Cards Trust Quiz Night is taking place on Friday 22nd November. Tickets are £10.
For more information please contact johngreenwood132@ hotmail.com
THE CARDS TRUST LAUNCHES A FAN WALL NEW FAN WALL
If you're coming to the Laithwaite this afternoon then you'll notice a striking new Fan Wall on the outside wall of the Legends Bar.
The wall offers personalised plaques to purchase that enable you to celebrate your favourite player, record your first match, or of course remember a loved one - it is very fitting that Andy Turner has pride of place on the top left plaque.Developed by the Supporters Liaison Groaup within The Cards Trust, this fundraising initiative will be used by the trust to fund improvements to the spectator experience at the ground, as well as contributing to Boost The Budget and other initiatives to support Woking FC.
You can find out more about how to get your own plaque by clicking here (simple login-free
access) or by speaking to any Cards Trust official at the game today.Anyone can purchase a plaque, you don't need to be a member of The Cards Trust, but please consider joining to actively support your club.This is also a great way for anyone who cannot get to The Laithwaite Community Stadium themselves to show their ongoing support for the club.
MATCHdAY MASCOTS
Today, Junior Cards members are matchday mascots! Thank you to the football club. Open to all Junior Cards members, the lucky members who were selected ae listed below:
Oscar Simpson
Aged 9, Oscar's favourite Woking player is Charlie Kendell and he plays football for Woking Cougars U9's
Noah Jones
Aged 8, Noah's favourite Woking player is Tunji Akinola and he plays football for Goldsworth Park Rangers
Harry Simmonds
Aged 8, Harry's favourite Woking player is Max Dyche
Riley Kinge
Aged 14, Riley's favourite Woking player is Matt Ward
Mia Hodges
Aged 9, Mia's favourite Woking player is Charlie Kendell
Elliott Hawkesworth
Aged 11, Elliott's favourite Woking player is Will Jaaskelainen and he plays football for Goldsworth Park Rangers Lions.
Sammy Woods
Aged 4, Sammy's favourite Woking player is Charlie Kendell and he plays football for Meadow Sports
Ivy Greenwood
Aged 5, Ivy's favourite Woking players are Charlie Kendell and Matt Ward
Noah Hawkesworth
Aged 7, Noah's favourite Woking player is Lewis Walker and he plays football for Meadow Sports.
Ollie Watts
Aged 11, Ollie's favourite Woking player is Will Jaaskelainen and he plays football for Mayford AFC U12 Sharks
Archie Blair
Aged 11, Archie's favourite Woking player is Timi Odusina.
Freddie Oakley
Aged 9, Freddie's favourite Woking player is Matt Ward and he plays football for Goldsworth Park Rangers Giants U10'S
Mayford Athletic FC, U10s Tigers
Spencer Boorman - Jake Butler - Matthias De Paula Dens
Jacob Edwards - Henry Hopkins - Myles Keartland
Giovanni Marinacci - Teddy O’Sullivan - Ben Priestman
Louie Salmon - Theo Turner
UKR AINIAN GUESTS TOdAY
We are delighted to welcome a large group from St Mary’s Ukrainian School as our matchday guests. The school was set up in Woking at the outbreak of the war to serve Ukrainian children displaced from their homes who relocated to Woking as refugees. The school has 99 students in total and the Upper School ( 44 ) are joining us today with some of their teachers.
Ласкаво просимо (Welcome!), we hope you enjoy your day and leave as Woking FC supporters for life!!
Slava Ukraini!
MASCOTS PACK AGE
There are two options available
Package One: Full Experience £120* (includes match shirt)
*Current season ticket holders receive a 10% discount (£108 total cost)
• 2024/25 match shirt
• Pre-match stadium tour
• Complimentary match day tickets for 1 adult and 1 child.
• Meet & Greet with photo opportunities with players
• Food & drink voucher.
• Kickabout pitch side as the players warm up.
• Digital programme feature
• Tannoy announcement
• Walk out with the players
• Picture with team captains and match officials
• A Woking FC representative present throughout
Package Two: Full Experience £80* (does not include match shirt)
*Current season ticket holders receive a 10% discount (£72 total cost) Includes all the above
A training top will be lent to the mascot to wear during the pitch-walk in the case that you do not have the current 24/25 match shirt.
Team Mascot Packages are available – please contact the club for more information.
Please note fixtures are subject to availability, If you have any further questions or special requests email simon.jones@wokingfc.co.uk
ACAdEMY BULLETIN
UPCOMING FIXTURES
Week commencing 21st October 2024
Wednesday 23rd October
13:00 – Woking U19 v Boreham Wood U19; National League Alliance – Academy South
Westfield FC, Woking Park
19:30 – Welling United U18 v Woking U18; Isthmian Youth League Cup - Third Round Holmesdale Football Club, Oakley Road, Bromley
For up-to-date information on fixtures please refer to the Woking Football Club Academy X (twitter) page.
Match Reports & Team Details
Week commencing 14th October 2024
Tuesday 15th October
Redhill 3 - 1 Woking
Surrey Senior Cup - First Round
Kiln Brow, Three Arch Road, Redhill
With the National League Cup pushing the County Cup further down Woking’s list of priorities, the Academy team were looking forward to testing themselves against the leaders of the Combined Counties Premier South, as they represented the club for this fixture.
Redhill did make 6 changes from their side for the previous Saturday’s league game, but the incoming players were all from their first team squad, including Woking Academy graduate Sean Swift. Woking made use of the dual-registration status of Tom Gardner, Lui Edwards, Henry McDonald and Ben Mitchell for this fixture.
Woking started sharply and Edwards got a shot away after just one minute, but it was Redhill who were soon putting Woking under sustained pressure, with Aidy Silverstein twice making defensive headers to concede corners.
Woking resisted, and after 20 minutes were getting forwards themselves, McDonald and Mitchell both threatening, with the latter finding a defender with a hold on his
shirt, but not enough for the referee to award a penalty kick.
With Tommy Seale and Jermaine Junior Young competing well in the heart of midfield, Redhill were finding they could not dominate their opponents, and Woking had their fair share of the chances.
Edwards picked up a loose ball 25 yards from goal, but put his shot wide, and on the half hour mark Silverstein got on the end of a Seale free-kick, but the angle was against him and his header also went the wrong side of the post from a Woking perspective.
Redhill countered well, and Woking were relieved to see the ball go across their penalty area without a Redhill player getting a touch. Whilst another Redhill chance went over the bar, and Harrison Stevens was called on to provide very good defensive cover as Redhill looked to break free.
The end-to-end nature of play continued until half-time, Ryan Scott shooting wide from a Mitchell pass across the area, when he might have expected to do better, and Edwards and Mitchell unlucky to be offside as they broke forward. Whilst Mikey Verga was forced in to a good save in the Woking goal.
Redhill replaced the injured Timmy Obisanya with Alex Keating as the half drew to a close, Keating would soon be involved significantly in the second-half.
HALF-TIME: REDHILL 0 – 0
WOKING
With the second-half just 3 minutes old a fine Woking move gave them the lead. McDonald battled well in midfield and played the ball wide to Jacob Farr on the left, Farr pulled a cross back to Edwards, who took a touch before teeing up Mitchell to fire home from 6 yards, a very good team goal.
Redhill came straight back, and after Nathan Hogan had put his shot wide, Keating made no mistake. Woking may feel that they could have closed the space more effectively, but when a loose ball broke to Keating outside the penalty area his low shot beat the outstretched dive of Verga to his left, and nestled in the bottom corner.
Galvanised by their goal, Redhill grew stronger, and with the rain getting heavier, looked to go on the attack, but the Woking defence, marshalled by Gardner, stood firm, and denied any clear-cut opportunities. Woking, too, looked to go forward, Stevens supporting the attack, and Edwards and McDonald causing Redhill problems.
There were half-chances, but as the half continued, it began to look as if the managers would be making decisions about who they would want on the pitch at the end of the 90 minutes, to take penalties. Mikey Verga was called into action, but it started to look like Woking had withstood the pressure and would take the game to a penalty shoot-out.
However, there was a sting in the tail. On 88 minutes Young covered a Redhill attack well, but the home side won a corner. The set piece was flicked on, and knocked in at the far post by Olly Allen from just a few yards out.
For good measure the Lobsters added a third as the game entered added time. Nathan Hogan dribbling skilfully before executing a neat close-range finish, despite the best efforts of the defender on the line.
Woking did still press forwards, but their crosses in to the box were well defended and Redhill saw out the victory. A performance to be proud of from this Cards side, with the second years now looking forward to being
joined by some of the first years for Friday’s FA Youth Cup game at Ramsgate.
Redhill: Luke Roberts (c), Arlie Talboys (Henry Gunay 60), Sam Fitzgerald, Luke Cunningham, Abel Vendrells (Luke Bejashvili 67), Paddi Harland-Goddard, Sean Swift (Adam Grant 67), Gavin Quintyne, Olly Allen, Nathan Hogan, Timmy Obisanya (Alex Keating 45). Unused sub: Tommy Smith.
Goals: Keating 53, Allen 88, Hogan 90+1.
Woking: Mikey Verga, Harrison Stevens, Tom Gardner (c), Aidy Silverstein (Joel JennisonLeppa 90+1), Ryan Scott, Tommy Seale (Harvey Brook 88), Jermaine Junior Young, Jacob Farr (Louis Pask 54), Henry McDonald, Ben Mitchell (Stanley Kyle 82), Lui Edwards. Unused sub: Bob Honey (GK).
Charlton Athletic FC Training Ground Sparrows Lane
5’ - Ejakita scores from Malhotra’s pass to give Woking an early lead.
55’ - Charlton level from the penalty spot.
80’ - Charlton take a 2 – 1 lead.
90+2 - Vally scores the stoppage time equaliser.
Woking: Aaron Zziwa, Ollie Rigby, Mason Drew, Jack Owen (George Mattingley 62), Max Goldsworthy (Luca Di Manno 62), Joe Scanlon (Brian Rai 52), Amario Malhotra, Joe Frawley, Frankie Bushby, Hayden Vally, Tyrell Ejakita (Jojo Ampah 62). Unused Sub: James Moore (GK). Goals: Ejakita 5, Vally 90+2.
FRIDAY 18TH OCTOBER
Ramsgate U18 0 - 4 Woking U18 FA Youth Cup - Third Round (of) Qualifying Prices Avenue, Ramsgate
This game was overshadowed by a serious leg injury to Woking’s Stefan van Wijngaarden, which required the attendance of the emergency services. We wish Stefan a complete recovery, he is very much in our thoughts.
The game itself was reasonably straightforward for the Cards against what looked to be a slightly younger Ramsgate side, up against a Woking team largely made up of second years.
Woking took the lead on 12 minutes, Ramsgate failed to clear JJ Young’s corner and Aidy Silverstein turned and shot into the top corner from 12 yards.
Stanley Kyle had already had a couple of chances before he doubled the Woking lead on 38 minutes. Harrison Stevens getting forward from defence to play Kyle in for a neat finish from 6 yards as Dane Bough sought to close the space.
Half-time: Ramsgate 0 – 2 Woking
Some excellent Woking passing continued to give them the upper-hand, although Ramsgate were still competing determinedly. On 68
minutes Mikey Verga was called into action as a Damien Matemba long-range cross-shot nearly caught him out and required saving on the line.
Ramsgate had briefly threatened to get back into the game, but it was out of their reach on 75 minutes, Lucas Boxall beating the ‘keeper to a through ball on the left edge of the penalty area and hitting the ball into the six-yard box, only for the defender’s attempted clearance to deflect the ball unstoppably into the net.
Boxall had a goal that was clearly his 2 minutes later, as he tapped in from closerange, but the ball had fallen to him under the most unfortunate of circumstances, and any celebrations were soon cut short as the players realised the seriousness of what had happened. Stefan van Wijngaarden had gone into a 50-50 challenge and suffered the serious leg injury which required the attendance of an ambulance and saw the abandonment of the game, with Ramsgate proposing that the tie be awarded to Woking.
Ramsgate, who were very good hosts, provided an excellent level of care and support, for which we are very grateful. Whilst their players stayed as Stefan was receiving treatment, so that they could applaud him as the ambulance left.
Woking will now welcome Bromley for the First Round Proper tie next week, although our thoughts as we left Ramsgate were with Stefan, rather than any dreams of a cup run.
Ramsgate: Dane Bough, Harrison Smith, Lucas Price, Mason Buckingham, Damien Matemba, Finley Bough, Harrison Martin, Oliver Jackson, Bailey McGill, Bobby Bale, Finley Waddell. Subs: Joe Mileham, Seth Brock, Ben Shuttle, Rohi Owusu-Sekyere, Luca Janota, Ollie Moore, William Barras.
Woking: Mikey Verga, Harrison Stevens, Aidy Silverstein, Jacob Farr, Louis Pask, Jermaine Junior Young, Leo Christopher, Lucas Boxall, Tom Dryer (Louie Boyle 71), Harvey Brook (Stefan van Wijngaarden 64), Stanley Kyle (c). Unused subs: Jools Lacey, Joel Jennison-Leppa, Louie Boyle, Will Ledbury, Bruno Dackombe, Seyi Akinwalere.
Henry McDonald, Centre Midfield, 3rd year – Petersfield Town: Did not play in the 1 – 2 defeat at Elburton Villa in the FA Vase First Round Proper.
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: The Aldershot Senior Cup First Round for Knaphill this weekend. Mitchell started on the bench and came on after 68 minutes with his side 0 – 1 down. Knaphill equalised on 88 minutes to take the game to penalties. Mitchell scored the second penalty, to the bottom left corner, as Westfield went through 4 – 1 in the shootout.
There were no fixtures for the Academy’s other loan (dual registered) players this weekend.
ACAdEMY
The Woking FC Academy has been operating in its current format for over a decade with the aim of helping talented young footballers make progress into the club's first team set up or in their sporting careers whilst continuing with their academic studies.
For the 2024/25 season, the youth and academy setup runs in three stages; a pre-academy for six to nine-year-olds, a youth academy for nine to 16-year-olds, and a full-time academy for talented young players above the age of 16, including an education plan.
The Academy works with the Football Club's partner charitable and community organisation, Cardinals in the Community (CITC).
Notable academy graduates in recent history include Woking legends Craig Ross and Joe McNerney, Wrexham's Ollie Palmer, and exChelsea and now-Reading's Jayden Wareham.
PRE-ACADEMY
The Pre-Academy is for the very youngest players, covering U7s, U8s and U9s. Meeting once a week, players train and learn in a fun and friendly environment under the watchful eye of our coaches. Players that show real talent have the opportunity to progress to Woking FC Academy Youth.
The Pre-Academy trains at The Winston Churchill School in Woking, Thursdays, 17:00 - 18:00.
YOUTH ACADEMY
Starting with U9s and progressing through the age groups right up to U16s, players train with our Academy coaches and have the opportunity to play competitively in the Junior Premier League. Training is held twice weekly at CITC’s sports hub, within the grounds of Woking College, and matches are played on Saturdays. At this level, players are able to continue playing for their grassroots clubs.
As with the main Academy, players receive a progress report twice per season, which helps identify areas of their game to work on and improve. U16s players are assessed throughout the season with a view to being invited to join Woking FC Academy.
WOKING FC ACADEMY
Woking FC Academy is a National League licensed academy. We aim to develop each and every player to reach their full potential, instilling ambition and a professional attitude. We work as closely as possible to Category 3 Academy standards, creating a professional environment in which players thrive.
Players train 5-6 hours per week at CITC’s sports hub. Their development is supported by video analysis of training and matches, group workshops and strength and conditioning sessions. One-to-one reviews are held twice every season, along with player reports so that both the coaching staff and the players themselves have a clear focus on individual development.
Woking FC Academy plays competitive matches in the U18 Isthmian League, U19 National League and also have the opportunity to play in U23 fixtures. Players in our Elite Development Plan (EDP) compete in the Tactic League and National B League. Cup competitions are a feature of the fixture calendar. Pre-season training includes friendlies and there are opportunities to travel abroad for football tours and tournaments, including the Gothia Cup.
Our football timetable is planned in conjunction with players’ education. Academy players can
choose to attend Woking College or focus on gaining the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which is delivered by SCL Education at Westfield FC. Players on the EDP pathway study towards the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (equivalent to 3 A levels) with SCL.
AGE GROUP COMPETITIONS
Under 23s - Second and third years (and progressing first years)
Play in: Suburban Football League - Premier Division
Home games: Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30
Under 19s - Second and third years (and progressing first years)
National League U19 Alliance - Academy South Division
Home games: Westfield FC, weekdays, daytime
Under 19B - predominantly U17s - first years
National League U19 Alliance - Division E Woking College, weekdays, daytime
Under 18s - predominantly U17s - first years
Pitching In Isthmian Football League - Youth West Division
Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30
Players will also have the chance to represent the academy in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.
All matches in one place, live, on-demand and on any device
